The best river, stream, or creek cabin rentals near La Jolla, California

For an unforgettable camping trip in southern California, take a drive to La Jolla in San Diego County. Sandy shores and coastal adventures await at La Jolla Underwater Park in its underwater caverns. Or, relax at Silver Strand State Beach, which features beachside RV and tent camping, as well as showers and picnic tables. Surfing and kiteboarding are also popular here. Further inland, ascend the peak of Palomar Mountain State Park, go inner tubing down San Luis Rey River, or take a zipline tour at La Jolla Adventure Park. Then, settle back in at nearby campgrounds that are dog-friendly.

97% (342)

Top-rated campgrounds near La Jolla

For an unforgettable camping trip in southern California, take a drive to La Jolla in San Diego County. Sandy shores and coastal adventures await at La Jolla Underwater Park in its underwater caverns. Or, relax at Silver Strand State Beach, which features beachside RV and tent camping, as well as showers and picnic tables. Surfing and kiteboarding are also popular here. Further inland, ascend the peak of Palomar Mountain State Park, go inner tubing down San Luis Rey River, or take a zipline tour at La Jolla Adventure Park. Then, settle back in at nearby campgrounds that are dog-friendly.

97% (342)

Top-rated campgrounds near La Jolla

1. Svatantria Boutique Retreat

96%

(40)

41mi from La Jolla · 8 sites · Lodging

Welcome to Svatantria, a serene retreat nestled on 14 acres of enchanting landscape in the charming community of Julian, California. Here, meandering creeks, a tranquil pond, ancient oaks and vibrant native flora and fauna create a haven of natural beauty. Our retreat features four charming cabins and eight picturesque camping areas, ideal for both day-use and extended stays. Each accommodation is thoughtfully equipped with amenities such as BBQ grills, mini-fridges, and bathrooms with invigorating hot showers. Depending on your choice of rental, amenities may be either private or shared. During your visit, immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings by exploring our on-site labyrinth, hiking through the peaceful canyons, dipping your toes in the seasonal creek, or observing the diverse wildlife. Julian has been designated as a national dark sky community, making it a perfect spot for stargazing enthusiasts. Every year between mid-July and the end of August, visitors can view the spectacular Perseid meteor showers, adding an extra touch of magic to your stay. We also invite you to join our yogis for practice on the meditation platform, or unwind to the soothing sounds of a nearby seasonal creek and waterfall. Private and semi-private yoga sessions are available—please contact us for more details. Svatantria honors the Kumeyaay, the First Peoples of this area, who have stewarded the sacred land for more than 1,000 years. As it's current custodians we are are hopeful that you will join us in preserving its beauty, spirit and nurturing essence.

2. San Diego Canyon Creek

95%

(373)

26mi from La Jolla · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Try out camping without having to rough-it! You can rent the Honeycomb Cabin! Or swing through for a safe place to spend the night in your van, or tent, while taking advantage of San Diego and all it has to offer! So much to be seen or done within 30 miles! You can plan a visit to the World Famous San Diego Zoo, Museums, Sea World, Birch Aquarium, Safari Park, Lego Land and more! San Diego county has wine tasting, breweries, theaters and eateries of all kinds. There are several beaches, mountain lakes, and even the deserts! You can skydive, or scuba dive, go deep sea fishing, or lake fishing, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, or walking the boardwalk! SAN DIEGO CANYON CREEK is a SMALL PATCH of WOODS, NEAR a ROAD, in a NEIGHBORHOOD. In the midst of the trees we have a great view of the stars at night. Harbison Canyon is surrounded by rocky peaks, with a CREEK! We have multiple species of song birds, owls, hawks, and other wildlife that live in this Riparian Habitat. There is a chorus of frogs throughout the spring nights, and crickets year round! It's a very short walk to the neighborhood park- equipped with several types of playground equipment and public creek access, or a five minute drive to a Crestridge Ecological Reserve containing multiple trails. We have three campsites and a cabin on about an acre of land. If you'd like to hang out on the property, we offer a table and chairs with each campsite to lounge in while enjoying the fresh air and nature. There are also a couple of hammocks available. In addition, our SHARED amenities include an outdoor kitchen that includes a sink with hot water, 2 mini fridges,(full at times, extra coolers available) coffee maker, a two burner stove, a griddle, a toaster oven, blender, tea kettle, and a few pans, plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. Also here to SHARE is a Propane fire pit and BBQ area. The bathroom now includes a flush toilet, sink and shower. We are continuously making improvements. Fun Fact: Harbison Canyon was named after John Stewart Harbison - aka the King of the Bee Keepers. He arrived with over one hundred colonies of bees in 1874 and within 7 years he became the world's largest honey producer! Today there are just a few bees in the area.

3. Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

100%

(9)

46mi from La Jolla · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to **Gemini Moon Ranch**, a hidden gem nestled in the rolling hills of De Luz just outside Temecula, CA. This 5-acre historic ranch offers guests a unique chance to reconnect—with nature, with history, and with themselves. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling into one of our rustic rooms, you’ll be surrounded by oak groves, native plants, and the peaceful soundtrack of birdsong and rustling leaves. The ranch is part of a living preservation project dedicated to honoring the legacy of California ranch life and the art of master craftsman Robert Morris, whose handmade metalwork still adorns parts of the property. During your stay, you’ll notice thoughtful details that blend history with charm, from vintage touches to handmade features. **Campers** will enjoy shaded spots beneath the trees, a year round creek, access to a communal outdoor kitchen and deck, and the serenity of being completely immersed in nature. Fall asleep to the sound of the breeze through the oaks and wake up with deer passing by your tent. **Room guests** stay in one of our lovingly restored farmhouse suites—each with its own story, private entrance, and access to modern comforts while maintaining rustic authenticity. **What to Expect:** 🌿 Creek access for seasonal dips or quiet meditation 🔥 Fire pit and outdoor gathering space 🌌 Unbelievable stargazing on clear nights 🛏 Cozy rooms with character and comfort 🌸 Native gardens, fruit trees, and visiting pollinators 🚿 Outdoor shower and rustic bathroom access for campers 🎨 Optional add-ons: private chef meals, yoga, massage, or stained glass classes We’re a quiet, soulful space—perfect for couples, artists, writers, nature lovers, or anyone needing a pause from the rush. Whether you come for a night or a weekend, you’ll leave with your feet a little dirtier, your heart a little fuller, and maybe even a few stories to tell.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Sara

November 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

Gemini Moon Ranch is a wonderfully unique and charming place. We stayed in the Artist Gallery and it was so cute and comfortable. We also did a stained glass class with Tracy which was amazing!! Will definitely be coming back for Soulful Sundays, one of their events and a girls weekend.

Alvaro

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Svatantria Boutique Retreat

We loved spending a weekend at the cabin, with the highlight being lying down on the wood benches by the campfire and look at the stars. The cabin is well equipped with bed pillows a land and a battery to keep your tech things charged up ! Kitchen has cooking items and the bbq makes it easy to cook. Bathroom with hot water and bio toilets are very well thought.

M

Madison

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Svatantria Boutique Retreat

Me and my partner had a lovely stay at Hellya cabin! We loved this spot especially for its view and quiet atmosphere. Parking was very close and we had a good distance from the other cabins. Keep in mind there are no heaters in this cabin but the building retained heat well at night and was cool during the day. Stuart and Janel’s dogs greeted us as we drove up and after a few barks they greeted us with snuggles! They were great company on our weekend trip. Thank you Stuart and Janel for letting us enjoy your land!

Eric

October 2025

2 nights at Svatantria Boutique Retreat

Location is beautiful, and the hosts have done so much work to make the property attractive and restful. The cabin was perfect for us, but others should know that the structures are very rustic and basic. The bedding and mattress were nice. People should prepare for a more camping-like experience and they will be happy. The kitchen and bathroom would be more useable with a few tweaks, which we will let the hosts know about. Definitely bring flashlights and possibly even your own camp stove if you want to be able to easily boil water. The hike to the cabin really is 5 minutes or less, and you should plan to carry your things over to it. The solar wasn’t functioning at the time of our visit, so we got by with battery packs charged at the house, which is a compromise for the mini-fridge since it can only power it for a little less than 24 hrs.

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ANDREA

October 2025

2 nights at Svatantria Boutique Retreat

It was so nice and relaxing to be in this space. I stayed in the cabin, Inyaha, and it perfectly suited my needs. There’s another nearby cabin, but it was unoccupied while I was there, so no kids playing in the playground (no shade!)… I was able to cook yummy meals on my stove, and relax amongst the mountain. I’d highly recommend to anyone seeking rest & relaxation.

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Joe

September 2025

Weekend Trip to San Diego Canyon Creek

Laura is an excellent host! The site was very well kept, the sounds of nature were relaxing. It’s a very charming cabin. It had every amenity needed, and went above my expectations. Laura was kind to also suggest a spot nearby (Sunrise Highway, Cuyamaca Lake Pub Restaurant, and Old Mining Town) nearby that we went to after departing the cabin and it was a lovely experience. I’m very happy to have stayed here. I really enjoyed cooking here, journaling, and the comfy bed.

Alexandria

September 2025

3 nights at Svatantria Boutique Retreat

We highly recommend this beautiful site! We had a wonderful long weekend enjoying the cabin/site and Julian area. Our hosts made us feel so welcome and answered all our questions along the way.

Shannon

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Svatantria Boutique Retreat

Beautiful property! Very quiet and relaxing. It is less than 10 min from Julian but felt like you were 100 miles away from any city. Our cabin did not have a kitchen (which I knew) so we brought our Coleman stove. It was perfect. I would definitely go back!

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Bailey

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Svatantria Boutique Retreat

My stay here was peaceful! The cabin had everything I needed and surprisingly stayed cool despite the warmer temperatures outside. The property owners dogs were so cute and friendly as well. Overall I would stay again.

Jenifer

August 2025

1 night at San Diego Canyon Creek

Second time staying. It was just as lovely as before.

S

Sandra

August 2025

With pets

1 night at Rustic Wooded Ranch -Creekside Stay

This property is very unique. It’s rustic but has so much charm. The trees, the wild life and the never ending wonderful quiet. We were 6 women 60s and 70s we thoroughly enjoyed our stay in The Gallery. Tracey and Pete, not only magnificent custodians of a site with such historical interest, they are the hosts we all wish to meet! If you feel like you need to unplug or unwind head out to this place, you won’t be disappointed. There are many nooks and cranny’s inside and out to sit and be quiet, or just talking. Something to enjoy!

i

iola

August 2025

2 nights at Svatantria Boutique Retreat

I went to unplug, to reset and be under the stars and in nature. This place hit the sweet spot. Highly satisfied. Highly recommend much gratitude ⭐️

D

Dawn

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to San Diego Canyon Creek

We had a great time at Laura’s cabin. It had everything we needed. Lots of green and shady spots. It was so nice hearing the crickets and frogs at night.

M

Melissa Juliet

July 2025

5 nights at San Diego Canyon Creek

It was such a cozy beautiful spot. Not far from downtown San Diego! Amenities were great. Can’t wait to come back!

kenny

July 2025

2 nights at San Diego Canyon Creek

Laura was a great host and very friendly. We had a very comfortable stay in the cabin. The Wifi worked very well, so I had no problem doing simple tasks. The entire place had a warm and comfortable atmosphere. The bathroom was also clean and well-maintained. It was nice to have a small market store nearby. And it was a reasonable distance to drive to the national park and San Diego Town. Thank you

M

Manuel

July 2025

2 nights at San Diego Canyon Creek

We had a great stay at the Cabin. Laura was a great Host and so kind. The outdoor kitchen was great and the whole place has a warm and friendly vibe. Would totally recommend it.

C

Culture Shock

July 2025

Weekend Trip to San Diego Canyon Creek

Amazing! Cozy! I’ve recommend to anyone looking for more of a nature outdoor vibe.

A

Andrew

July 2025

1 night at San Diego Canyon Creek

This place is so calming and peaceful you will want to stop by and visit for years to come!

A

Ashley

July 2025

2 nights at San Diego Canyon Creek

We celebrated our anniversary here and had such a wonderful time! The cabin was cozy and it was great to fall asleep and wake up to the sound of frogs, birds, and other critters. The kitchen area also had everything we needed to cook up dinner and breakfast. Laura was quick to answer any questions we had and it was a perfect distance for our drive to San Diego and La Jolla. Thank you for your hospitality Laura!

A

Andrew

July 2025

4 nights at San Diego Canyon Creek

Amazing place to stay! Laura was super nice! The site and cabin were fantastic! I'll be recommending this place to anyone I know can appreciate it!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek cabins near La Jolla guide

Where to go

Palomar Mountain State Park

Northeast of La Jolla, Palomar Mountain State Park spans over 1,800-acres of pine, fir, and cedar forest. At the southern foothills of Palomar Mountain, La Jolla Indian Campground run by the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians boasts fun river tubing access and exciting zipline tours through Pauma Valley. Or reserve a dog-friendly campsite with flush toilets and pay showers. It fits motorhomes and trailers up to 24 feet in length. Nearby, Lake Henshaw also offers boating, kayaking, and waterfront camping for fishing and boating enthusiasts, including RV sites with full hookups.

Silver Strand State Beach

On a slim sandbar between San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean, Silver Strand State Beach offers both cooler ocean and warmer bay beaches. Swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing are popular here, as are beach volleyball, surfing, and boogie boarding. The on-site RV campground offers full hookups for motorhomes and travel trailers up to 40 feet in length. Facilities include fire rings for summer cookouts, beach restrooms, and cold showers.

La Jolla Underwater Park

Swimmers, snorkelers, and scuba divers will want to visit La Jolla Underwater Park for day use after they check into a nearby RV park. Swimming through the crystal clear waters, underwater explorers will encounter an abundance of marine life, including leopard sharks and colorful fish among kelp forests. The underwater park extends about three miles up the coast along La Jolla Bay from La Jolla Cove to Scripps Pier.

When to go

With warmer weather up to the mid-80s and longer daylight hours, summertime is popular for camping near La Jolla. Snorkelers and divers who want to swim with leopard sharks may want to visit when the population peaks in July and August. Milder weather in spring and fall can be equally pleasant and less busy for ziplining, tubing, and hiking. Campsites typically offer greater availability during the cooler months as well.